Cross-Country Skiing

April 30, 2014

Cross-Country Skiing

We hope you love to cross-country ski because Grand Superior Lodge is in the heart of the top cross-country ski trails in the Midwest. Ski passes are required and can be purchased online at the MN DNR website.

Korkki Nordic Trails
Off Hwy 61, south of Two Harbors

Korkki is a classic trail for classic (diagonal stride) skiers. The narrow, one-skier-wide trail begins with a wooded 4K intermediate loop, then offers a 2K intermediate add-on followed by an optional 2K advanced loop that includes one big hill. Perfect for moderately experienced skiers looking for a quiet ski in the woods.

Drive south on Hwy 61 to Homestead Rd, then north on the Homestead Rd for 2.5 miles, then west/left on the Korkki Rd for .5 miles to the trailhead.

Erkki Harju Trail, Two Harbors
County Rd 2, 3/4 mile north of Hwy 61 in Two Harbors

A rolling trail over fairways on the golf course and looping through the forest. System includes an intermediate Inside Loop and easy-to-intermediate Outside Loop plus a 3K lit trail. No matter which trail you choose, you will most likely spot wildlife tracks. Pretty trails through paper birch, cedar and evergreens.

Gooseberry Falls has something for everyone; scenery, easy starter loops, challenging woodland trails, lots of choices and a great visitor center with a warming fire in the lobby, restrooms and a gift shop. The easy loop is down near Lake Superior while intermediate and advanced loops interconnect riverside and north of the highway. The trailhead, and maps, are at the Visitor Center.

We suggest Split Rock Lighthouse park trails for intermediate skiers. Most of the loops run west through the forests adjacent to and north of Lake Superior and include some hills. The trail criss-cross, allowing you to add another loop or head back as the day progresses. A stop at the park office will get you on your way to the trailhead. Bonus – winter views of Split Rock Lighthouse!